Tips to Keep Your Baby Well-Hydrated

When you think about caring for a baby, you probably don't think about hydration. You have feeding, diapering, and sleeping schedules to keep track of, so it's easy to forget just how important it is for your little one to get fluids in. However, keeping your baby hydrated is just as important as feeding your baby and making sure they are getting enough sleep!

Whatever feeding method you choose, whether you are looking at breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or introducing solids, you can help your baby grow comfortably by knowing how to monitor their fluid intake. Let's take a step back and take a look at all the ways we can make up for hydration, one sip at a time!

Why Keeping Your Baby Hydrated is Important 

Babies lose water faster than adults because their bodies are made up of more water. That means they’re more likely to get dehydrated quickly, especially during warm weather, teething, or illness.

Signs of dehydration can sneak up quietly. You might notice fewer wet diapers, dry lips, a sunken soft spot on their head, or even unusual fussiness. Staying aware of these changes can help you act early and avoid complications.

Good hydration keeps things like digestion, temperature control, and nutrient absorption running smoothly. It’s one of those small daily things that has a big impact on how your baby feels and functions.

How Much Water Does Your Baby Need? 

This depends largely on age, climate, and what your baby is eating or drinking. Here’s a quick look at general hydration needs:

Newborns (0–6 months): Breast milk or formula is enough. Extra water isn’t needed and could even be harmful at this stage.

Infants (6–12 months): A few ounces of water a day—about 2 to 4 ounces—is usually sufficient, alongside breast milk or formula.

Toddlers (12+ months): Toddlers need more fluids as they become active. Around 1 litre (or about 4 cups) of total fluids each day is a good benchmark, which includes water, milk, and other suitable drinks.

If you’re breastfeeding, make sure you're also drinking enough yourself. Breast milk is over 87% water, and your hydration plays a role in how much milk your baby gets.

Best Hydration Practices for Different Stages 

For Newborns (0–6 Months)

At this stage, all hydration should come from breast milk or infant formula. There’s no need to offer additional water unless your doctor recommends it. Giving plain water too early can fill up tiny tummies and interfere with nutrient absorption.

Breastfed babies tend to feed more often in hot weather, as their body naturally adjusts to provide more fluid. You don’t need to supplement —just follow your baby’s cues.

For Infants (6–12 Months)

This is when you can begin offering small amounts of water, especially with meals. Many parents use sippy cups to help babies practise drinking independently. Look for cups that are easy to grip, soft on the gums, and spillproof.

Here’s what can help:

• Offer sips of water during and after meals.

• Stick to water or milk—avoid fruit juices or sugary drinks.

• Make the transition smoother by using feeding bottles and sippy cups that your baby finds familiar and comfortable.

Laadlee’s range of baby products includes feeding solutions that are safe, gentle, and designed for tiny hands.

For Toddlers (12+ Months)

As toddlers become more active, they’ll need more fluids throughout the day. Encourage regular drinking, especially after play, during meals, or when it’s hot outside.

Helpful tips:

• Keep water easily accessible.

• Make hydration fun by letting your child choose their favourite sippy cup.

• Offer fruits with high water content—like melons, oranges, or strawberries—as snacks.

This is also a good time to start building lifelong habits. If drinking water becomes a normal part of their day, you’re laying the foundation for healthy routines early on.

If you're interested in learning more about hydration and breastfeeding, check out our blog right here!

Hydration-Friendly Picks from Laadlee 

We know how busy life gets for new moms. That’s why Laadlee focuses on making baby products that combine function with safety. When it comes to hydration, our collection includes everything from feeding bottles to starter sippy cups that make drinking easy and enjoyable for your little one.

Here are a few favourites:

• BPA-Free Feeding Bottles: Our collection includes Spectra PA Feeding Bottle, Philips Avent Natural 3.0 Feeding Bottle, which are made for comfort and easy latching, perfect for both breast milk and formula.

• Soft Spout Sippy Cups: Products like Mushie Silicone Sippy Cup, Trixie Silicone Sippy Cup are designed for a smooth transition from bottle to cup, with handles ideal for little fingers.

• No-Spill Toddler Bottles: Our Moon Kids Water Bottle is great for mess-free travel or daycare use.

Each item is tested for safety and crafted with care because we know how much thought goes into every choice you make for your baby.

Bonus Baby Hydration Tips 

Here are a few more tips to help keep your baby hydrated:

• Don't wait until they show signs of thirst. If your baby is thirsty, they may already be slightly dehydrated.

• Offer water-rich foods. Once solids are introduced, soft fruits and vegetables are great alternative sources of hydration.

• Be mindful of hot days. Offer more water on hotter days.

• Model behaviour. Drink water in front of your child – if you do, they are more likely to do it too.

Staying hydrated doesn't have to feel like a chore. With a little inventiveness and by utilising your routines, it can be an effortless and natural part of your day.

Conclusion 

Being a mom is about balancing responsibilities; hydration is a subtle hero in the everyday care of your child. Starting with feeding bottles in infancy to easy-to-hold sippy cups for your rambunctious toddler, the practice of hydration is another step in creating a healthier and happier baby. 

Laadlee believes in the parental journey, and we are here to help make your life easy, provide support, and help you to grow a happy, healthy baby. Want to explore more? Visit our website for more thoughtful parenting tips, expert-backed advice, and baby products designed with your little one's well-being in mind.